Crisp Cucumber & Herb Delight

πŸ•’ Prep: 15 min
πŸ”₯ Cook:
🍽 Serves: 4
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This Crisp Cucumber & Herb Delight is like a summer garden party on your plate. It's a refreshing, crunchy salad that perfectly balances bright herbs, tangy dressing, and creamy feta, making it a light yet satisfying addition to any meal.

Ingredients for Crisp Cucumber & Herb Delight

Cucumbers: The star of the show, offering crispness and hydration. Choose firm cucumbers for the best texture.

Mint leaves: Add a burst of freshness and a cooling effect that complements the cucumbers beautifully.

Dill: Brings a slightly tangy and grassy note, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Parsley: Offers a mild, fresh taste, while also adding vibrant color.

Red onion: Provides a sharp, sweet bite that balances the salad's flavors.

Feta cheese: Crumbly and tangy, it adds richness and depth to the salad.

Almonds: Slivered almonds add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.

White wine vinegar: The acid in the dressing brightens all the flavors.

Olive oil: Gives the dressing a smooth texture and richness.

Honey: Balances the vinegar's acidity with a touch of sweetness.

Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly thin cucumber slices.
  • Chill your salad bowl ahead to keep the salad extra fresh.
  • For extra zing, add a splash of lemon juice to the dressing.
  • If you’re not a fan of red onions, try shallots for a milder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it perfect for a barbecue. Try serving it alongside a loaf of crusty bread to soak up the delicious dressing. It’s also a fantastic addition to a brunch spread!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just add the almonds and cheese right before serving to keep them crunchy.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
Try goat cheese for a creamier texture or leave it out for a dairy-free version.
How long will leftovers last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Note that the cucumbers may lose some of their crispness.

Crisp Cucumber & Herb Delight Recipe Walkthrough

First, grab your sharpest knife and slice those cucumbers thinly. Aim for uniform slices to ensure even flavor throughout. Toss them into a large mixing bowl.

Next, thinly slice the red onion and add it to the bowl with the cucumbers. Follow that up with the chopped mint, dill, and parsley. Give everything a gentle toss to mix the ingredients.

Now, let's make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper. This dressing is what ties all those fresh veggies and herbs together.

Pour the dressing over your cucumber mixture, and toss gently to ensure everything is nicely coated. Be gentle to avoid bruising the cucumbers.

Finally, sprinkle the feta cheese and slivered almonds on top. Give it one last toss to mix all those delicious layers together.

Pop the salad in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. This chilling time lets the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfectly refreshing for hot days.
  • Quick and easy, ready in 20 minutes.
  • Uses fresh, wholesome ingredients.
  • Great for potlucks or picnics.
  • Light, yet packed with flavor.

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup almonds, slivered
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, red onion, mint, dill, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Add the feta cheese and slivered almonds, then toss again to mix.
5. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

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